The Most Essential Cookie Sheets for Oven-Safe Cooking

On the list of kitchen items you just can’t live without, cookie sheets easily make the top ten. Even if you aren’t a baker per se, these oven-safe pieces can assist your meal preparations in so many ways. From baking chocolate chip cookies for school functions to roasting veggies and molding homemade pizza crusts, cookie sheets do it all. So even if you aren’t a pro baker, you might as well stock up on several of this staple.

When browsing the best cookie sheets for your kitchen, pay close attention to the materials they’re made from (do you prefer aluminum, steel or a combination of both?), size and special features such as non-stick coatings and patterned surfaces for easy food release. Whether you choose Rachel Ray’s pro set or Circulon’s basic tray, here are the best cookie sheets you’ll use several times a week (if not daily).

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1. Nordic Ware Naturals Bakeware Baker’s Half Sheet

Not only are these Nordic Ware cookie sheets incredibly versatile, they’re also built to last. The Natural’s Bakeware Baker’s Half Sheet pans are made from pure aluminum, guaranteeing a lifetime of durability and zero chance of rusting. Plus, pure aluminum boasts superior heat conductivity, meaning any baked goods or veggies you pop into the oven will be evenly cooked through as the pan’s encapsulated steel rims simultaneously work to prevent warping. Though clean up is relatively easy (a solid hand wash with warm soapy water should get the job done), dishwasher use is not advised as harsh detergents will cause discoloration.

2. Rachael Ray 3-Piece Oven Lovin’ Cookie Pan

If you’re almost positive you’ll be doing less baking and more roasting in your kitchen, you might want to turn your attention to this three-piece cooking set from Rachel Ray. The celebrity chef’s Oven Lovin’ Cookie Pan bundle consists of one 9″x13″, one 10″x15″ and one 11″x17″ pan. Designed with a heavy, non-stick gauge steel that can handle heat up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, the bakeware set is ideal for both sweet and savory treats. What’s more, a portion of the proceeds from your purchase will be donated to Yum-O!, a nonprofit organization that helps kids and parents develop healthy relationships with food and cooking.

3. USA Pan Bakeware Half Sheet

USA Pan’s cookie sheet does more than bake the bare minimum. From chocolate chip cookies to pizza rolls and even cakes, the brand’s Bakeware Half Sheet will no doubt be a staple in your kitchen cabinets. Made from commercial grade aluminized steel, this cookie sheet also features a non-stick silicone coating that’s PTFE-, PFOA- and BPA-free. And, unlike other cookie sheets that have a smooth surface, its rigid texture facilitates even air circulation and heat distribution.

4. Calphalon Nonstick Baking Sheet

While you could absolutely use Calphalon bakeware to roast vegetables and whip up some savory meals, this set of cookie sheets is specifically marketed for frequent bakers. The pans are made with steel and feature interlocking nonstick layers for easy food release. They’re also designed with raised edges, so you can bake sheet cakes, brownies and the like without the risk of spilling. But that’s not all: Unlike other cookie sheets, Calphalon’s product is 100 percent dishwasher safe, making for super easy clean up — since we all know the best part of baking is eating, not washing.

5. Circulon Nonstick Baking Sheet

It doesn’t get much more simplistic than Circulon’s cookie sheets. Made with a heavy-duty carbon steel construction, these pans feature a Total Food Release System that is PFOA-free, utensil safe and super easy to clean. What’s more, the surface of the pan was designed with a raised circular pattern that makes food release a non-issue. Though it is dishwasher safe, Circulon recommends hand washing.